The apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes is a dish that promises to impress at any gathering. This recipe showcases tender beef short ribs braised to perfection in rich apple vinegar, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or cozy nights in, this dish stands out with its unique flavor profile and comforting textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fall-Apart Tenderness: The slow cooking process transforms beef short ribs into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of apple vinegar and fresh herbs creates a deep, satisfying flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
- Versatile Pairing: Enjoy these flavorful short ribs with various sides or alone as a hearty meal.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with buttery mashed potatoes for a beautiful plate that looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: Ensures even heat distribution while braising the beef, preventing scorching.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, improving efficiency in the kitchen.

Ingredients
For the Braised Beef:
- 2.5 lbs beef short ribs (bone-in)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups dry apple vinegar
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
How to Make apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables and measure out the liquids to streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the short ribs and sear on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to combine flavors.
Step 4: Braise the Beef
- Return the beef short ribs to the pot.
- Pour in apple vinegar and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
- Add fresh thyme and bay leaves.
- Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low; let it cook for about 3 hours or until tender.
Step 5: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
- While the beef cooks, place peeled and cubed Yukon gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat; then reduce to medium-low.
- Cook until tender (about 15-20 minutes), drain well.
- Add unsalted butter to the potatoes; mash until creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Once your beef is fall-apart tender, serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal that delights every palate!
How to Serve apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Serving apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs over Buttery Mashed Potatoes is a delightful experience. The rich flavors of the beef complement the creamy potatoes, creating a comforting meal.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the beef short ribs atop a generous scoop of buttery mashed potatoes for a classic look.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Top the dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness.
Accompany with Seasonal Vegetables
- Add steamed green beans or sautéed spinach on the side for a nutritious balance.
Drizzle with Extra Sauce
- Spoon additional braising liquid over the ribs and mashed potatoes for extra flavor and moisture.
How to Perfect apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Creating the perfect apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Choose quality beef: Select well-marbled short ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Sear before braising: Browning the meat in olive oil enhances the depth of flavor in your dish.
- Marinate overnight: For richer taste, marinate the beef in apple vinegar and spices a day ahead.
- Use low heat for long cook time: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures tender meat.
- Mash potatoes properly: Use a potato ricer or masher for creamy, lump-free mashed potatoes.
Best Side Dishes for apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Pairing your dish with complementary sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and garlic, then roast until crispy for added texture. - Honey Glazed Carrots
Sauté carrots in butter and honey until caramelized, providing a sweet contrast to the savory ribs. - Creamed Spinach
This rich side dish made with fresh spinach and cream adds a luxurious touch to your meal. - Braised Red Cabbage
Cook red cabbage in apple cider vinegar for a tangy side that complements the beef nicely. - Herbed Rice Pilaf
Light and fluffy rice cooked with herbs adds an aromatic element without overpowering other flavors. - Cornbread Muffins
These slightly sweet muffins provide a delightful texture contrast while soaking up any juices from the beef.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoiding seasoning: Not seasoning the beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Ignoring rest time: Failing to let the beef rest after cooking can result in tough meat. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Skipping sautéing vegetables: Neglecting to sauté the onions and garlic can prevent their flavors from developing. Always cook them until soft and fragrant.
- Overcooking or undercooking potatoes: Not cooking the potatoes long enough or too long can affect the texture of mashed potatoes. Aim for fork-tender potatoes, then drain and mash promptly.
- Using wrong vinegar types: Using unfiltered or flavored vinegars can alter the dish’s intended flavor profile. Stick to dry apple vinegar for best results.
- Forgetting garnishes: Not adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of pepper at the end can reduce presentation. Always finish your dish with a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure beef is fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Separate the mashed potatoes into different containers for better thawing results.
Reheating apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heating for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes.
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar; however, apple vinegar works best for this recipe as it complements the beef flavor.
How do I know when my beef is tender?
The beef will be tender when it easily pulls apart with a fork. This usually takes about 2-3 hours of braising.
What can I serve with apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs?
These short ribs pair well with various sides such as steamed vegetables, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it just before serving for enhanced flavors.
Final Thoughts
This apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes recipe is not only delicious but also highly versatile. The tender beef paired with creamy mashed potatoes makes for a comforting meal that can easily be customized with your favorite herbs or side dishes. Give it a try, and enjoy your culinary adventure!
Apple Vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the comforting delight of apple vinegar Braised Beef Short Ribs with Buttery Mashed Potatoes. This dish features succulent beef short ribs that are braised to perfection in a rich, tangy apple vinegar sauce, resulting in fall-apart tender meat bursting with flavor. Paired with creamy mashed Yukon gold potatoes, this meal is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or special occasions. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, even novice cooks can impress their guests with this savory classic.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs beef short ribs (bone-in)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups dry apple vinegar
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- 1. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and sear the ribs until browned on all sides.
- 2. Remove the short ribs and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in the same pot for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
- 3. Return the beef to the pot and pour in apple vinegar and beef broth. Add thyme and bay leaves; cover and simmer on low for about 3 hours or until tender.
- 4. Meanwhile, boil cubed Yukon gold potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain well, then mash with unsalted butter until creamy.
- 5. Serve the tender beef short ribs over buttery mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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